Our Positive Behaviour Support practitioner Michael has effectively utilised functional communication training and role modelling to help Jamie, a 9-year-old with Autism, reduce verbal aggression and learn respectful communication, benefiting both him and his younger siblings.
Verbal aggression in individuals with ASD can manifest due to various reasons, including sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, anxiety, or frustration. It is essential to recognise that verbal aggression is often a form of communication rather than intentional aggression.
Navigating the challenges of working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be both rewarding and demanding. One common issue that arises is verbal aggression, which can present significant challenges in both home and professional settings. In this blog post, we will explore how Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) can effectively manage verbal aggression and create a supportive environment for individuals with ASD.
Background Information
Jamie, a 9-year-old boy, was diagnosed with Autism at age 7. He lives with his Mum, Dad, and younger brother and sister and attends a mainstream school from Monday to Friday without additional support. He exhibits verbal aggression towards others about twice a week at a medium severity level, which can be redirected and de-escalated with sufficient space, time, and verbal prompting.
Current Challenges
Jamie displays verbal aggression towards his family when he disagrees with them or when questioned about topics he doesn't want to discuss. He uses profanity and disrespectful language, which is concerning for his family. His younger siblings, who see Jamie as a role model, are starting to mimic his behaviour, adding to the family's concern.
Strategies and Outcomes
After taking Jamie on as a client under the Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) framework, we have focused on Replacement Behaviour strategies. Initially, we tried emotional regulation techniques when Jamie became agitated after winning a game against his mother. However, Jamie rejected these techniques, escalating his verbal aggression towards his mother and grandparents.
In response, we implemented a new strategy involving functional communication training, giving Jamie choices and control to help him self-de-escalate. We provided a list of phrases for Jamie to use, such as "May I...", "If it is okay for me to...", and "Excuse me". This was role-modelled by the practitioner and family members in front of Jamie, helping him understand the importance of respectful communication.
Benefits of Functional Communication Training and Role Modelling
As the eldest sibling, Jamie is aware of his role and importance within the family. Using functional communication training and role modelling appropriate behaviour helps Jamie understand suitable ways to interact with his family. By learning these methods, Jamie can also act as a role model for his younger siblings, teaching them to engage with family members appropriately and respectfully. This approach not only benefits Jamie but also helps his younger siblings learn positive behaviours through his example.
Plan Moving Forward and Expected Outcomes
During our weekly sessions, Jamie will continue to engage in conversations about respectful communication with elders, guided by role modelling from his parents and from me as the behavioural practitioner. The next goal for Jamie is to help him prepare for his school transition next year. He will be moving to a school closer to home, which means he has limited friends and connections.
Conclusion
Working with individuals with ASD who exhibit verbal aggression requires a compassionate and informed approach. Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) offers a framework that emphasises understanding, proactive intervention, and skill-building rather than punitive measures. By consistently and collaboratively implementing PBS strategies, caregivers, educators, and support staff can create environments where individuals with ASD thrive, and their verbal aggression diminishes.
By embracing Positive Behavioural Support, we can empower individuals with ASD, enhance their quality of life, and foster a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.
If you have a family member, client, or know someone who would benefit from this approach, contact our support team today. We can help.
